Written by C.Diva

We talk a lot about Feminism here on the Collective, but we rarely address the other side of the spectrum, which has to do with how men view themselves in the world and the idea of “toxic masculinity”. According to Wikipedia, “The concept of toxic masculinity is used in the social sciences to describe traditional norms of behavior among men in contemporary American and European society that are associated with detrimental social and psychological effects. Such “toxic” masculine norms include dominance, devaluation of women, extreme self-reliance, and the suppression of emotions.”

In only the last 3 months there have been 3 mass shootings in the United States, perpetrated by men who may have felt the need to conform to traits “viewed as traditionally male, such as misogyny, homophobia, and violence, can be considered “toxic” due to harmful effects on others in society, while related traits, including self-reliance and the stifling of emotions, are correlated with harm to men themselves through psychological problems such as depression, increased stress, and substance abuse.”  Not only that, but so many sexual assault accusations have come to light in journalism, television and film that I cannot even keep track of the newest one.

As a woman, I have no idea the pressures of malehood, but I do know the negative results of toxic masculinity that permeate our society. I know NOT ALL MEN are awful, but all men are culpable and responsible for their own actions as well as those of their dude bro friends. Please take a moment to check out the video below and, if you are a guy reader–I hope that you are watching what the women of the world are saying to you and your dude bros friends about male privilege and how women want to be treated and that you are taking note.